hold out hope

VERB

promise

Synonyms

STRONGEST

encourage hint indicate suggest

STRONG

augur bespeak betoken bode denote forebode foreshadow foretoken like look omen portend presage

WEAK

give hope hold probability lead to expect seem likely show signs of

Antonyms

STRONG

ignore

WEAK

break discourage renege

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

With the next round of talks expected later this week, there are some that still hold out hope.

From Barron's • Jan. 27, 2026

But the US president has continued to hold out hope of a breakthrough, saying he would have liked to meet Kim during his trip to Asia this week and hailing their "great relationship."

From Barron's • Oct. 30, 2025

As recently as last week, the Bibas family continued to hold out hope that the mother and her sons could be returned to Israel alive.

From BBC • Feb. 26, 2025

“It’s not just about facts; it’s about how we share and receive them. I still hold out hope that one day we can reconnect and bridge our differences.”

From Salon • Feb. 24, 2025

First Sticky would need to resist Mr. Curtain’s invitation—and with the pull of the Whisperer so powerful, with Mr. Curtain now so likely to succeed, could Reynie hold out hope for this?

From "The Mysterious Benedict Society" by Trenton Lee Stewart

hold out hope

Example Sentences

Related Words